The poor management of hazardous substances and waste produced by extractive industries continues to have a negative impact on the enjoyment of human rights, says UN Human Rights expert on toxic waste.

Toxic waste from mining activities and nuclear testing can contaminate the land and water of communities for decades. Serious health effects and pollution interrupt traditional ways of life, according to reports from two UN experts.

“Discarded, obsolete, or broken electronic equipment is often transported to destinations where recycling is not regulated,” says Calin Georgescu, the Human Rights Council Special Rapporteur on toxic waste.